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Remediation using Large Diameter Auger with Steam and Zero Valent Iron« All Projects

Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) concentrations in groundwater in the source zone of a former syringe manufacturer were indicative of dense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL). Distinctive to the Site, the upper surficial aquifer is separated from the lower surficial aquifer by two clay layers with a vertical head gradient (downward) across the clay layers of 40 feet. The significant head difference resulted in the vertical downward migration of the PCE DNAPL into/within the clay layers and then forming a large plume in the lower surficial aquifer beneath the clay layers. Over time, migration of the contaminants, including PCE and its breakdown products, resulted in an expansive dilute dissolved plume throughout a residential area with multiple private water supply wells. The primary project objective was to refine the existing conceptual site model and develop and implement a remedial strategy to address the PCE/DNAPL source material diffused within the clay layers and representing a long-term source of flux to the dissolved plume.

Geosyntec's Scope of Services

As part of Geosyntec's site assessment and remediation services at the Site, a high-resolution site characterization (HRSC) investigation was performed to obtain Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) approval of a Site Assessment Report. Upon completion of a focused feasibility study to evaluate remedial alternatives, Geosyntec prepared a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) for remediating chlorinated solvents in groundwater using an innovative, aggressive remediation strategy consisting of a large diameter auger combined with the injection of steam and zero valent iron (LDA/steam/ZVI), followed by natural attenuation monitoring (NAM). Prior to remediation, Geosyntec performed pre-demolition assessment activities and provided oversight for the demolition of an onsite building.

To support RAP implementation, Geosyntec prepared detailed project specifications, design drawings, and bidding documents. Geosyntec directly contracted with FECC, Inc. to implement the LDA/steam/ZVI technology at 194 borings at depths up to 64 feet below land surface. The remedial technology involved using the 8-foot diameter auger to simultaneously mix the subsurface and introduce hot air/steam to promote thermal volatilization and stripping of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) from soil and groundwater, followed by injection of ZVI as a polishing step to provide treatment of residual CVOCs. After the subsurface cooled over a 6-month period, performance monitoring was conducted, which included soil and groundwater sampling using direct push technology drilling equipment, monitoring well installations, and monitoring well sampling.

Notable Accomplishments

During the three months of active LDA/Steam/ZVI implementation, an estimated 400 to 500 pounds of PCE were remediated (not considering the mass destroyed in situ as a result of the ZVI). Post-LDA soil and groundwater sampling indicated that the treatment goals were achieved. CVOCs were not detected in saturated soil samples collected in the source zones, and groundwater samples collected via direct push technology and monitoring wells were well below concentrations that facilitated transitioning of the site to natural attenuation monitoring. Post-remediation groundwater monitoring has also documented that no rebound has occurred in the treatment area following one year of monitoring.

Geosyntec is a consulting and engineering firm that works with private and public sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure.